Unnamed illness claims life of North Brookfield first-grader - Gate House

January 01. 2013 6:00AM

Unnamed illness claims life of North Brookfield first-grader

A North Brookfield Elementary School first-grader died early Sunday morning after a short illness.

The 6-year-old boy was identified as Dominic Brown, according to Paul Jarvey, a spokesman for the Worcester District Attorney's office.

Mr. Jarvey said the boy showed signs of illness on Saturday night and was pronounced dead at a local hospital on Sunday. Dominic was with his father in Holden at the time.

The death does not appear to be suspicious and no foul play is suspected, he said, adding that his office is investigating because it was unattended.

Although Superintendent John A. Provost said the 6-year-old boy's death was not connected in any way with the school, the district is doing everything to make sure other children are not at risk.

He said he contacted the child's parents and faculty because of the nature of the incident.

“There is not a lot that's known at this point,” Mr. Provost said.

Mr. Provost said the school's nurse contacted the department of public health for advice concerning precautions that could be taken and followed the department's recommendations. He said there has been “no infectious agent” identified at the school but, to demonstrate the utmost of caution, they disinfected the entire school.

Mr. Provost said counseling support would be available Wednesday at the school.

“I know the little boy was sick but I don't know if they know actually what from, yet,” Jason M. Petraitis, chairman of selectmen, said. “The town grieves for the family and the loss of this little boy.”

Already, a community effort has begun to organize a benefit for the boy's family.

School Committee member Nicole Styles is working in collaboration with the best friend of the boy's mother to set up a benefit dinner. They will meet with the school superintendent and prospective volunteers at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at the school, Ms. Styles said.